Routinely meeting others’ expectations. Doing what you’ve said. Saying what you’ll do for someone. We value reliability. Companies are rewarded for reliably reporting earnings. Heaven knows we value reliability in the Metro. We like to know what to expect. A leader works to be reliable for others.

One of the best compliments I get is that I’m reliable. On occasion, someone will say “when Dan says it’s true, it’s true.” I have had folks comment that they appreciate that I do what I’ve said. It isn’t flashy, and it is so important. I am inclined to remember those things I say to others. And follow through. Unless I’m unable. I will follow-up either way.

I was talking to my friend Matthew and he asked me what I saw in his work that makes me know he’s a special talent. I’ve known him for five years. He’s consistently striving to get better. Every time we talk, he is always trying to improve himself and his team. I think of him as a reliable leader.

Being reliable will make you stand out. It’s not an impossible skill to learn. Work to build habits that serve your core purpose. Keep track of what you’ve committed to others. Follow-through and stay the course. I find it to be a special attribute.

Being reliable is highlighted in the Jim Collins book “Great by Choice” where he talks about the 20-mile march. Consistently doing what you you know you must to be successful. It is about being reliable and consistent; not just to others. Also to yourself.

I work to run regularly to stay fit. When I run, I try and be reliable for myself. I run a certain amount each week. I build up to a total mileage for the month. The habit helps me achieve my goals for running for the year. I can’t do it all at once, so I make it a habit.

Being reliable doesn’t mean being superhuman. You can’t do everything. There will be things others want from you that you cannot deliver. You can communicate what you can and can’t do. Setting expectations is as much a part of reliability as is execution.

Another way to think of reliability is to think of your habits - what do you do so routinely that it’s nearly subconscious? One of the seven habits from Steven Covey is to sharpen the saw. Continue to invest in yourself and your development. Do this for yourself in a reliable way, you will not let yourself down in your own growth.

How reliable are you? Set expectations and communicate to others. Increase your own reliability. Stand out from the crowd as a leader that others rely on.